Genetics Program
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About the Genetics Program
The Genetics Program (GP) is a research group within the Department of Systematic Biology at the National Museum of Natural History. The lab was founded in 1991 as part of the National Zoological Park, but recently was moved administratively under the Natural History Museum. Eventually, the laboratory will move from the National Zoo to the Natural History Building on the mall, and join with other researchers using molecular methods for studies of evolution and conservation.
The Genetics Program uses molecular genetic methods in support of studies in systematics, population genetics, and behavioral ecology. Much of our research is directly applicable to concerns of conservation biology, and relevant to endangered species and biodiversity issues.
Staff members of the laboratory have developed skills in DNA analysis from suboptimal materials (i.e., "ancient" DNA from subfossils and museum specimens and from noninvasively collected samples such as scats or shed hair). We also are experienced in the development and application of microsatellite loci (see our enriched genomic library protocol). A major project in which we are currently involved is a study of genetic interactions among native and introduced Hawaiian birds (hosts), introduced mosquito vectors (Culex quinquefasciatus) and introduced avian malaria (Plasmodium relictum). In another important project we use microsatellite markers amplified from scat to census population size and to determine movements and relatedness of endangered San Joaquin Valley kit foxes.
The GP also participates in the Amazonia Science Gallery, an exhibit developed by the Conservation and Research Center for public education and outreach. We have a small, active genetics laboratory in which visitors can see scientists conduct a variety of genetic analyses, including DNA sequencing.
This page provides access to information from past and ongoing studies in the lab and a listing of the laboratory's researchers. There is also protocol and technical content for molecular geneticists.
Smithsonian Institution
NMNH - Genetics Program
3000 Connecticut Ave., NW
Wasington, DC 20008-2537Voice: 202-673-4781
Fax: 202-673-4648
Revision: February 2003
Researchers | Publications | Technical Corner | Seminar Series | Web Credits
